2. T H E B EG I N N I N G TO O U R
JOURNEY
November 2011
My Grandmother went into the hospital for mersa and other
issues related to the infection.
Previously we had all thought her lupus was the cause.
3. THE DIAGNOSIS
January 2012
She went back into the hospital with kidney failure from the
flu.
After extensive testing, we found out she had stage 3
Multiple Myeloma.
4. THE IMPACT OF ILLNESS
Multiple Myeloma is a blood cancer that forms in the bone
marrow.
It causes the bones to have lesions and makes them brittle
and creates pain in the bones.
It also makes those who have extremely tired and fatigued.
5. ANOTHER ROAD BLOCK
February 2012
My grandmother passes out and breaks her back.
She had back surgery done.
6. TREATMENT
Most patients under go extensive chemo rounds with very
strong doses to prepare for possible stem cell transplants.
My gram went 2 times a week for two weeks and took a
chemo pill during those two weeks. Then she would get one
week off.
She did this from January until May of 2012
7. THE STEM CELL PREP
After many tests, doctor appointments for three months and
two very strong doses of chemo, which equals a years worth of
the drug, we are ready for the transplant!
8. THE EASIEST PART
The stem cells were added on August 9th 2012. Happy new
birthday! (that’s what the hospital calls the transplant day)
The stem cells are added by an iv drip.
9. THE WAITING PERIOD
After that, patients stay in the hospital for approximately 21
days, but my Gram got out after 18!
Being in a hospital room on one floor for almost three weeks
is very hard for most people. Luckily I lived close to the
hospital and my family was able to stay often!
10. THE END OF A SESSION
Now we simply wait and see how she improves over the next
few months and see what additional maintenance she may
need.
This cancer has no cure yet; it can only be maintained. But
with your help we may be able to continue to contribute to
much needed research and development!
11. PLEASE JOIN US!
You can help by participating in our first annual Hope Rises
charity trail ride!
Simply rsvp for our June ** #### ride starting at 10:00 AM
If you have any questions or would like to make a donation,
please feel free to submit your inquiry through the Quick
Contact page on our website.
